By Jordan Long
The Las Vegas Raiders fell to the New York Giants 23-16, dropping their record to 5-3. Las Vegas is now going to take on Kansas City next Sunday. The Raiders are anticipating the signing of wide receiver DeSean Jackson will give the offense a boost. The financial terms of the deal weren’t announced.
In the loss against the Giants quarterback Derek Carr completed a pass to 7 different players. The highest total came from tight end Darren Waller who ended up with 7 receptions for 92 yards. The wide receiver with the most yards in the game was Hunter Renfrow who totaled 49 yards. Carr ended up with 260 yards passing, 1 touchdown, and 2 interceptions.
The Raiders needed another wide receiver other than Renfrow. Of course, they just cut Henry Ruggs this past week for his involvement in a fatal crash while driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI). Adding Jackson to the team is a move they had to make.
Jackson was available because he was let go by the L.A. Rams. The Rams tried to trade Jackson prior to last weeks’ trade deadline of November 2. The Rams had conversations with teams but they didn’t find a deal they liked. He was cut once the deadline passed. He was a free agent and could decide where he wanted to play next.
According to SI.com, Jackson said, “Although it isn’t the outcome that we wanted, I am extremely appreciative for the opportunity and support given to me by the Rams coaches and all of the fans. I understand that everything happens for a reason and I look forward to beginning the next chapter of my NFL career. Thank you.”
Jackson didn’t fit into the Rams’ offense. He was not very productive with 8 catches for 221 yards, and 1 touchdown, but his average yards per catch was an impressive 27.6 yards. The Rams had other wide receivers they counted on including Robert Woods, Cooper Kupp, and Van Jefferson. Jackson was the odd man out.
Jackson becoming a Raider makes a lot of sense. He could be one of the fastest wide receivers on the team. He creates separation from the defensive backs to be open. Once he catches the football those are for first downs or longer. This will add to the Raiders receiving core of wide receivers Hunter Renfrow, Bryan Edwards, and tight end Darren Waller. Jackson should see time as the slot receiver or even be lined up opposite of Renfrow. He gives the Raiders flexibility at the position.
The Raiders are in a tight race in the AFC West as well as a playoff spot in the AFC. Jackson could give them the spark they need on offense. He should be more productive in this offense. This was one smart move to improve the receiving core for Las Vegas.
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